Quarterback Derek Carr had been the face of the Raiders organization for nine seasons. But times have changed and expectations have shifted. Now, the team is looking to replace him with an experienced quarterback or a prospect to develop.
Here are some players the Raiders should avoid:
Jimmy Garoppolo
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The Las Vegas Raiders should not go after the San Francisco 49ers' Jimmy Garoppolo. The Raiders are in the midst of rebuilding, and Garoppolo is not the right fit for the team.
First off, Garoppolo is too expensive. The 49ers will be looking for a hefty return for the prized quarterback, and the Raiders do not have the draft picks nor the cap space to accommodate such a trade. The Raiders are in the middle of a deep rebuild, and the money would be better spent on the draft, free agency and building the team from the ground up.
Another reason is the uncertainty surrounding Garoppolo. He has shown flashes of greatness over the past couple of seasons, but he’s been hampered by injuries. This means that the Raiders will be taking a huge risk as there’s no telling when he could get hurt again or if he can stay healthy for the long term.
Garoppolo also does not fit the Raiders' offensive scheme. The Raiders are looking for a quarterback with a strong arm, mobility and good decision-making skills. Garoppolo is not a mobile quarterback and he’s known more for his accuracy than his arm strength. This would limit the Raiders offense, and they would be unable to open up the playbook.
Finally, the Raiders should look to the draft for their next quarterback. The Raiders have the No. 12 pick and should use this to their advantage. This is a deep draft class, and the Raiders should use their picks to select a younger, more talented quarterback who will fit the team’s needs better.
Aaron Rodgers
Some have suggested the Raiders pursue Aaron Rodgers, the veteran superstar from the Green Bay Packers. However, this would be a mistake. Although he is one of the greatest quarterbacks in NFL history, the Raiders should not go for Rodgers for a few key reasons.
Rodgers is nearing the end of his prime. At 37 years old, his best days may be behind him, and the Raiders should look for a younger, long-term option instead.
Secondly, the Raiders have a tight salary cap, and Rodgers’ high salary could prevent them from adequately filling other holes in their roster.
Finally, the Raiders need a quarterback who is willing to commit their future to the team, and Rodgers cannot provide that.
Baker Mayfield
The Raiders need a quarterback with a proven track record of success, and Baker Mayfield is not that option. The team also needs someone with NFL experience or a potential prospect to build around. Any way you shape it, Baker Mayfield, despite showing some signs of revitalization with the Los Angeles Rams this season, is a player the Raiders should not even think about signing.
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